Wheel Horse 1257
Power
12 hp
Production
1967
Engine
Gasoline, 1-cylinder
Transmission
Wheel Horse Unidrive 5058
Weight
545 lbs [247 kg]
Drive
2WD
From the same series:
Introduction
Wheel Horse 1257 Garden Tractor
The Wheel Horse 1257 is a classic garden tractor produced in 1967 as part of the 1077 and 1267 series. Manufactured in South Bend, Indiana, USA, this machine was designed primarily for residential lawn maintenance and versatile garden tasks.
Engine and Power
The tractor is powered by a Kohler K301S gasoline engine. This 1-cylinder, air-cooled unit has a displacement of 476 cc (29.07 cubic inches) and produces 12 hp (8.9 kW) at a rated speed of 3600 RPM. The engine utilizes a bore and stroke of 3.375 by 3.25 inches.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The 1257 utilizes the Wheel Horse Unidrive 5058 transmission. This belt-driven gear system provides three forward gears and one reverse gear. Power is delivered to the rear wheels via a two-wheel drive configuration, paired with a manual steering system for operator control.
Dimensions and Chassis
The unit features a wheelbase of 45.5 inches (115 cm) and a total length of 65 inches (165 cm). With a width of 36 inches (91 cm) and a ground clearance of 7.25 inches (18 cm), it remains compact for maneuverability. The tractor weighs approximately 545 lbs (247 kg). It is equipped with 16x5.50-8 front tires and 23x8.50-12 rear tires designed for lawn and turf applications.
Implement Compatibility
The tractor is designed to support various mowing operations and is compatible with 36-inch, 42-inch, or 48-inch mower decks, allowing the operator to select the appropriate width for their specific terrain requirements.
Conclusion
The Wheel Horse 1257 remains a representative example of 1960s American garden tractor engineering. Its combination of a reliable Kohler engine and a straightforward mechanical transmission makes it a durable choice for enthusiasts and collectors focused on traditional lawn and garden maintenance.
Production Information of Wheel Horse, 1257
- Garden tractor
- Built in South Bend, Indiana, USA
| Manufacturer | Wheel Horse |
|---|
Dimension and Tires Information of Wheel Horse, 1257
| Ground clearance | 7.25 inches [18 cm] |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase | 45.5 inches [115 cm] |
| Height (hood) | 35 inches [88 cm] |
| Height (steering wheel) | 40 inches [101 cm] |
| Length | 65 inches [165 cm] |
| Shipping weight | 545 lbs [247 kg] |
| Width | 36 inches [91 cm] |
| Lawn/turf front | 16x5.50-8 |
|---|---|
| Lawn/turf rear | 23x8.50-12 |
Engine Specifications of Wheel Horse, 1257
- Kohler K301S
- Air-cooled
- Gasoline
- 1-cylinder
| Power | 12 hp [8.9 kW] |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 476 cc [29.07 ci] |
| Rated RPM | 3600 |
| Bore/Stroke | 3.375x3.25 inches [86 x 83 mm] |
| Starter volts | 12 |
Transmission Information of Wheel Horse, 1257
Transmission variants 1
| Transmission | Wheel Horse Unidrive 5058 |
|---|---|
| Type | Belt-driven gear |
| Gears | 3 forward and 1 reverse |
Mechanical Specs of Wheel Horse, 1257
- Two-wheel drive
- Manual steering
- Open operator station.
Electrical System of Wheel Horse, 1257
| Ground | Negative |
|---|---|
| Battery volts | 12 |
Where it sits
With 12 HP, the Wheel Horse 1257 sits just above 1077 (10 HP) in Wheel Horse's range. Its power puts it in the 97th percentile of 1960s models in our database (550 machines).
Frequently asked questions
How much horsepower does the Wheel Horse 1257 have?
The Wheel Horse 1257 delivers 12 HP.
What years was the Wheel Horse 1257 produced?
The Wheel Horse 1257 was produced in 1967.
What engine does the Wheel Horse 1257 have?
The Wheel Horse 1257 is powered by a Gasoline, 1-cylinder engine.
What transmission does the Wheel Horse 1257 use?
The Wheel Horse 1257 uses a Wheel Horse Unidrive 5058 transmission.
How much does the Wheel Horse 1257 weigh?
The Wheel Horse 1257 weighs 545 lbs [247 kg].
Is the Wheel Horse 1257 4WD?
The Wheel Horse 1257 is available in 2WD.